Process for making antimicrobial agents in aqueous dispersion form containing 2-(4- thiazolyl)-benzimidazole alone or in combination with 1,2-dibromo-2,4-dicyanobutane

ABSTRACT

Aqueous dispersions of 2-(4-thiazolyl)-benzimidazole (TBZ), alone or in combination with 1,2-dibromo-2,4-dicyanobutane (DBDCB), and processes for making the same, are disclosed. These processes generally comprise mixing a xanthan gum with water, adding TBZ and mixing until uniform. DBDCB dispersions are prepared by mixing xanthan gum with water, adding DBDCB, maintaining the mixture at a temperature below about 40° C., grinding the mixture and mixing until uniform. The TBZ and DBDCB dispersions are then blended to prepare a dispersion containing both active ingredients. A method for inhibiting microbial growth utilizing these dispersions is also claimed.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] 1. Field of the Invention

[0002] The present invention relates to processes for preparing aqueousdispersions of designated antimicrobial agents. These dispersions andvarious uses thereof are also claimed. The present dispersions aregenerally useful for inhibiting microbial growth in typical media wheresuch microbial growth occurs.

[0003] More particularly, the present invention is concerned withprocesses for making aqueous dispersions of2-(4-thiazolyl)-benzimidazole, alone or in combination with1,2-dibromo-2,4-dicyanobutane. These processes rely on the use ofxanthan gum to stabilize the dispersions. The present invention alsorelates to the novel dispersions described herein and to methods ofinhibiting microbial growth comprising contacting said growth with aneffective amount of the dispersions prepared by the processes hereindisclosed.

[0004] 2. Description of the Background Art

[0005] A number of important industries have experienced adverse effectsfrom the activity of biological growth on the raw materials which theyemploy, in their process waters, on various components of theirmanufacturing processes, and in the finished products which theyproduce. Such industries include, inter alia, the paint, wood, textile,cosmetic, leather, tobacco, fur, rope, paper, pulp, plastics, fuel, oil,rubber and machine industries. In these industries, therefore, it isgenerally desirable to utilize one or more biocides in an attempt tocontrol microorganism populations. As used herein, the phrases“biocide”, “antimicrobial” and “inhibiting microbial growth” describethe killing, inhibition or control of biological growth including butnot limited to bacteria, algae and fungi such as yeast, mold and mildew.

[0006] Both 2-(4-thiazolyl)-benzimidazole (TBZ), also known asthiabendazole, and related compounds and 1,2-dibromo-2,4-dicyanobutane(DBDCB), also known as 2-bromo-2-bromomethyl-glutaronitrile, and relatedcompounds are known in the art as antimicrobial agents, both alone andin combination with other compounds. TBZ is commercially available as adispersion from Calgon Corporation, Pittsburgh, PA and DBDCB iscommercially available from Calgon Corporation in dry, organic solutionand aqueous dispersion forms.

[0007] U.S. Pat. No. 4,830,657 describes a synergistic antimicrobialcombination comprising DBDCB and 1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one.

[0008] U.S. Pat. No. 4,442,122 describes the use of1,2-dibromo-2-cyanoalkane compounds to inhibit microbial growth; thispatent also discloses use of these compounds in conjunction with TBZ.

[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 4,496,581 describes the use of1,2-dibromo-2-cyano-2-(heterocyclic) alkane compounds to inhibitmicrobial growth; this patent also discloses use of these compounds inconjunction with TBZ.

[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 5,034,405 describes admixtures of DBDCB,2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one and 5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-oneas antimicrobial agents.

[0011] U.S. Pat. No. 3,370,957 describes TBZ and related compounds andtheir use in controlling fungal growth.

[0012] DBDCB and related compounds, and their use as antibacterial,antifungal and algicidal agents, are also disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos.3,833,731, 3,877,922, and 3,873,597. U.S. Pat. No. 3,833,731 furtherdiscloses the use of DBDCB in conjunction with TBZ as an antimicrobialagent; this patent, however, does not disclose an aqueous dispersioncontaining DBDCB and TBZ which utilizes xanthan gum as a stabilizer.

[0013] The xanthan gum based processes of the present invention, theresulting compositions and their use as antimicrobial agents are notknown or suggested in the art.

[0014] One problem that is commonly experienced with commerciallyavailable TBZ dispersions is that they are not compatible withcommercially available DBDCB dispersions. Furthermore, standard,commercial TBZ dispersions are often very difficult to meter and handlebecause of their viscosity. Thus, despite the commercial availability ofTBZ and DBDCB dispersions, there remains a need for methods of producingstable aqueous dispersions containing either TBZ alone or TBZ incombination with DBDCB.

[0015] It is contemplated that the dispersions prepared by the processesof the present invention will have application in any industrial aqueoussystem in which inhibition of microbial growth is desired. Importantapplications are believed to include, inter alia, inhibiting the growthof bacteria in aqueous paints, adhesives, resins, drilling fluids,pigment dispersions, latex emulsions, metal-working fluids and jointcements; controlling mold and mildew growth on natural and syntheticfibers; preserving wood; preserving cutting oils; controllingslime-producing bacteria and fungi in pulp and paper mills and coolingtowers; as a spray or dip treatment for textiles and leather to preventmold growth; as a component of anti-fouling paints to prevent adherenceof fouling organisms; protecting paint films, especially exteriorpaints, from attack by fungi which occurs during weathering of the paintfilm; protecting processing equipment from slime deposits duringmanufacture of cane and beet sugar; preventing microorganism buildup anddeposits in air washer or scrubber systems and in industrial fresh watersupply systems; controlling microorganism contamination and deposits inoil field drilling fluids and muds, and in secondary petroleum recoveryprocesses; preventing bacterial and fungal growth in paper coatingprocesses which might adversely affect the quality of the paper coating;controlling bacterial and fungal growth and deposits during themanufacture of various specialty boards, e.g. cardboard and particleboard; preventing sap stain discoloration on freshly cut wood of variouskinds; controlling bacterial and fungal growth in clay and pigmentslurries of various types which are manufactured for later use in papercoating and paint manufacturing, for example, and which are susceptibleto degradation by microorganisms during storage and transport; as a hardsurface disinfectant to prevent growth of bacteria and fungi on walls,floors, etc.; and in swimming pools, ponds and cooling water systems toprevent algal growth.

[0016] An application for which the synergistic dispersion of DBDCB andTBZ as prepared by the processes of the present invention has been foundespecially useful is in the protection of paint films from attack byfungi. Paint film fungicides which can preserve paint films from thedeleterious effects of fungal attack which occur during weathering ofthe paint film have long been sought. Few, however, have been found dueto the stringent requirements for such a successful paint fungicide.Moreover, the ability to provide in-can preservative activity, as wellas paint film protection, is also desirable. This additionalcharacteristic is seldom seen in a paint film fungicide. A synergisticadmixture of DBDCB and TBZ as prepared according to the methods of thepresent invention is particularly useful, therefore, in functioning asan all in one in-can preservative and mildewcide.

[0017] It is believed that the aqueous TBZ dispersions prepared by themethods of the present invention can be used in any application in whichTBZ would be used, assuming that substantial problems with miscibilitybetween the TBZ dispersion and the system being treated do not arise.Likewise, the aqueous dispersion containing blends of DBDCB and TBZ canbe used in any application in which use of these two components togetherwould be beneficial; this provides a further advantage in that it allowsfor the simultaneous feeding of both DBDCB and TBZ in one product at apredetermined, desired ratio. Because the aqueous dispersions preparedaccording to the processes of the present invention are in a form whichis easy to meter and pump, it is anticipated that the improved handlingproperties of these aqueous dispersions will allow for their use in evenmore applications than TBZ alone, and TBZ in combination with DBDCB, arecurrently employed.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The present invention generally meets the above described needsby providing aqueous dispersions containing antimicrobial agents whereinproblems with viscosity and handling, as currently experienced with2-(4-thiazolyl)-benzimidazole (TBZ) dispersions, are reduced. Thesenovel dispersions, which are stabilized by addition of an effectiveamount of a xanthan gum, contain TBZ, either alone or in combinationwith 1,2-dibromo-2,4-dicyanobutane (DBDCB); dispersions containing bothTBZ and DBDCB also reduce compatibility problems encountered whencommercial TBZ and DBDCB dispersions are combined.

[0019] The present invention also provides processes for making thesenovel aqueous dispersions. Preparation of the TBZ aqueous dispersionincludes the steps of mixing an effective amount of xanthan gum withwater, adding TBZ to the mixture in an amount effective to give thedesired active ingredient concentration and mixing until uniform.

[0020] One method for preparing a dispersion containing both DBDCB andTBZ comprises: a) preparing a DBDCB dispersion by mixing an effectiveamount of xanthan gum with water; adding DBDCB to the mixture in anamount effective to give the desired active ingredient concentration;mixing until uniform; cooling the mixture to a temperature below about40° C., if the temperature is higher; and grinding the uniform mixture;b) preparing a TBZ dispersion as described above; and c) blending apredetermined amount of each of these dispersions so as to provide adispersion containing both active ingredients in the desired ratio.

[0021] In another embodiment of the present invention, the process forpreparing an aqueous dispersion form of a DBDCB and TBZ admixturecomprises: a) mixing an effective amount of xanthan gum with water; b)adding DBDCB to the mixture in an amount effective to give the desiredactive ingredient concentration; c) mixing until uniform and cooling toa temperature below about 40° C., if the temperature is higher; d)grinding the uniform mixture; e) adding TBZ to the ground mixture in anamount effective to give the desired active ingredient concentration;and f) mixing until uniform. Alternatively, the TBZ can be added to thexanthan gum/water mixture at the same time as the DBDCB, i.e. before thegrinding step; in this alternative embodiment, both active ingredientswould be subject to grinding.

[0022] The present invention also provides for the use of the aqueousdispersions disclosed herein to inhibit microbial growth. This useincludes methods for inhibiting microbial growth comprising contactingsaid growth with an effective amount of one of the aqueous dispersionsdescribed above.

[0023] As used herein the terms “amount effective” and “effectiveamount” refer to that amount of a compound or product needed to bringabout a desired result. For example, adding TBZ and/or DBDCB in an“amount effective” to give the desired active ingredient concentrationgenerally refers to the amount of TBZ and/or DBDCB added to a dispersionto produce an antimicrobial agent capable of achieving a desired levelof inhibition of microbial growth; an “effective amount” of xanthan gumadded to an aqueous dispersion generally refers to that amount ofxanthan gum which gives the dispersion the desired stability.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

[0024] The present invention is directed to novel aqueous dispersions ofantimicrobial agents containing 2-(4-thiazolyl)-benzimidazole (TBZ),alone or in combination with l,2-dibromo-2,4-dicyanobutane (DBDCB), andprocesses for making the same. As discussed above, both TBZ and DBDCBare known in the art as biocides; TBZ is primarily known for itsefficacy against fungi, and DBDCB for its efficacy against bacteria,although DBDCB is also reported to be effective against algae and fungi.The use of these two biocides together is also known in the art. Thenovel processes for producing the present aqueous dispersions of TBZ,alone or in combination with DBDCB, and the dispersions which resultfrom these processes, however, are not known in the art.

[0025] More particularly the present invention is directed to a processfor preparing a TBZ antimicrobial composition in aqueous dispersion formcomprising the steps of mixing an effective amount of xanthan gum withwater in a vessel fitted with an agitator, adding an effective amount ofTBZ to the xanthan gum/water mixture and mixing until uniform. Further,the present invention is directed to the process for making a TBZantimicrobial composition as described above further including the stepsof preparing a DBDCB antimicrobial composition in aqueous dispersionform by mixing an effective amount of xanthan gum with water in a vesselfitted with an agitator; adding an effective amount of DBDCB to thexanthan gum/water mixture and mixing until uniform; maintaining thexanthan gum/water/DBDCB mixture below a temperature of about 40° C.;grinding the above mixture; and mixing a desired quantity of the TBZantimicrobial composition with a desired quantity of the DBDCBantimicrobial composition to form an admixture containing both DBDCB andTBZ in aqueous dispersion form.

[0026] The present invention is also directed to an aqueous dispersionuseful as an antimicrobial agent comprising an effective amount of TBZas an active ingredient and an effective amount of xanthan gum as astabilizer. Generally, these dispersions contain between about 0.01 and2% by weight of xanthan gum, between about 0.1 and 60% by weight of TBZand the balance water. Further, the present invention is directed to theTBZ antimicrobial agent as described above further comprising aneffective amount of DBDCB as an active ingredient. This dispersion,according to the present invention can have a total DBDCB and TBZ activeingredient concentration ranging from about 0.1 to 60% by weight of thetotal product and can be used in a DBDCB to TBZ ratio of between about4:1 and 1:4. Generally, these dispersions contain between about 0.01 and2% by weight of xanthan gum, between about 0.01 and 60% by weight ofTBZ, between about 0.01 and 60% by weight of DBDCB and the balancewater.

[0027] The present invention is also directed to a process for preparingan aqueous dispersion of 1,2-dibromo-2,4-dicyanobutane (DBDCB) and2-(4-thiazolyl)-benzimidazole (TBZ) comprising the steps of: mixing aneffective amount of xanthan gum with water in a vessel fitted with anagitator; adding an effective amount of DBDCB to the water/xanthan gummixture and mixing until uniform; maintaining the water/xanthangum/DBDCB mixture below a temperature of about 40° C.; grinding theabove mixture; adding an effective amount of TBZ to the ground mixture;and mixing until uniform. Further, the present invention is directed tothe above process which comprises adding an effective amount of bothDBDCB and TBZ to the water/xanthan gum mixture and wherein the step ofadding TBZ after grinding is eliminated.

[0028] In addition, the present invention is directed to a method ofinhibiting microbial growth comprising contacting said growth with aneffective amount of an admixture comprising1,2-dibromo-2,4-dicyanobutane and 2-(4-thiazolyl)-benzimidazole preparedby the process comprising the steps of: mixing an effective amount ofxanthan gum with water in a vessel fitted with an agitator; adding aneffective amount of DBDCB to the water/xanthan gum mixture and mixinguntil uniform; maintaining the water/xanthan gum/DBDCB mixture below atemperature of about 40° C.; grinding the above mixture; adding aneffective amount of TBZ to the ground mixture; and mixing until uniform.

[0029] As stated above, one embodiment of the present invention isdirected to the process for making an antimicrobial agent in aqueousdispersion form containing TBZ as its active ingredient. This processgenerally involves the steps of mixing an effective amount of xanthangum with water in a tank or vessel fitted with a jacket and an agitator,adding an effective amount of TBZ to the xanthan gum/water mixture andmixing until uniform. The tank or vessel used is preferably stainlesssteel or glass lined. A level of agitation sufficient to disperse thesolid active ingredient in the carrier is required.

[0030] An effective amount of xanthan gum is required. As used here, theterm “effective amount” refers to that amount of xanthan gum required togive the dispersion its desired consistency and stability. Generally, toproduce about 1000 pounds of the aqueous dispersion, an effective amountof xanthan gum would range from about 0.1 to 20 pounds, more preferablyfrom 1 to 15 pounds and most preferably from about 1 to 10 pounds.

[0031] Xanthan gum consists of mannose, glucose and glucuronic acid;each repeating block in the xanthan gum molecule contains five sugarunits—two mannose units, two glucose units and one glucuronic acid unit.Xanthan gum is commercially available as a powder from the Kelco Companyand the Rhone-Poulenc Company. The powder readily dissolves in both hotand cold water, and results in solutions with high viscosity. Xanthangum also dissolves in acids and bases. Generally, xanthan gum hasexcellent stability and the viscosity of solutions containing xanthangum can remain stable for several months.

[0032] While it is preferred that the xanthan gum be food grade andcellulase enzyme free, the grade of xanthan gum employed will depend onthe final use of the aqueous dispersion and can be selected based on theneeds of the individual user. For example, if the dispersion is to beused as a preservative for paint it would be important that the xanthangum be cellulase enzyme free because of the destructive effect that thecellulase enzyme has on the modified cellulose often used as astabilizer in paint. Likewise, if the dispersion is to be used in aformulation to coat paper in contact with foodstuffs, a food grade blendwould be desired. Suitable xanthan gums for use in the methods of thepresent invention are commercially available from the Kelco Co., underthe name Kelzan®, or the Rhone-Poulenc, Co.

[0033] It is also within the scope of the present invention to utilizeother suitable gums, such as guar gum, which result in an aqueousdispersion having the desired consistency and stability. Xanthan gum,however, is preferred.

[0034] As will be understood by one skilled in the art, the xanthan gumpowder should be added to the water at a steady pace, and should not beadded so quickly as to cause gels to form in the finished product. Anyindustrial, process quality water can be used. Zeolite Softened Water orcondensate is preferred.

[0035] Following addition of the xanthan gum to water, TBZ should beadded in an amount effective to give the desired active ingredientconcentration. As will be understood by practitioners of this art, theTBZ should be added at a rate slow enough to avoid the formation oflumps and to prevent any dusting of the TBZ. The mixture should beagitated until the TBZ is well dispersed, which again will be apparentto one skilled in the art. After addition of all of the TBZ, the mixtureshould be agitated for a time sufficient to ensure formation of auniform slurry, at least about fifteen minutes and preferably about onehour.

[0036] The TBZ used is preferably dispersion grade. That is, theparticle size of the TBZ should generally average less than 30 microns.Finely ground TBZ suitable for use in the methods of the presentinvention is available, for example, from Merck as Metasolo TBZ. Ifcourser TBZ is used as a starting material, however, a grinding stepgenerally must be included in the preparation of the TBZ dispersion.Such a grinding step is described below in reference to the preparationof the DBDCB aqueous dispersion.

[0037] Effective amounts of various optional processing aids can also beadded during preparation of the TBZ dispersions according to the methodsof the present invention. For example, an effective amount of sodiumchloride, which functions as a crystal modifier, can be added to theblend to serve as a freeze protector. Preferably between about 1 and 10pounds of sodium chloride should be added for every 1000 pounds ofproduct, more preferably between about 2 and 7 pounds. An effectiveamount of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) in any of its varioussalt forms, such as disodium EDTA (Na₂EDTA), can also be added to theblend to protect against low level iron contamination. EDTA acts as achelating agent, which serves to tie up or bind any iron which may bepresent in the final product. Preferably between about 0.1 and 5 poundsof EDTA should be added for every 1000 pounds of product, morepreferably between about 0.5 and 1.5 pounds. An effective amount of ananti-foam agent can also be optionally added. The anti-foam agentgenerally contains some form of silicone, and is primarily added toprevent foaming of the product during processing. An appropriateanti-foam for use in the methods of the present invention is DowCorning® Antifoam AF Emulsion. Preferably between about 1 and 10 poundsof anti-foam should be added for every 1000 pounds of product, morepreferably between about 2 and 5 pounds. In addition, use of aneffective amount of a wetting agent is highly recommended. Because theTBZ may be added in powder form, the wetting agent can function todisperse the powder, thereby greatly improving processability. Igepal®CTA 639, available from the Rhone-Poulenc Co., is one such wetting agentsuitable for use in the methods of the present invention. Preferablybetween about 1 and 10 pounds of wetting agent should be added for every1000 pounds of product, more preferably between about 4 and 6 pounds.Effective amounts of any or all of these processing aids can be used.Determination of an effective amount for the intended purpose is wellwithin the skill of practitioners in this art.

[0038] In addition, the TBZ aqueous dispersion of the present inventionmay require a preservative to prevent bacterial growth. This isnecessary because TBZ is generally not effective against bacteria. Anysuitable biocide effective against bacteria can be used as thepreservative; DBDCB in aqueous dispersion form, for example, is suitablefor this purpose. A DBDCB aqueous dispersion can be made according tothe methods of the present invention, as discussed below, or can bepurchased from Calgon Corporation, Pittsburgh, PA.

[0039] While the amount of active ingredient in the aqueous dispersioncan be altered to suit the needs of the user, the weight percent of TBZgenerally ranges from about 0.1 to about 60% of the dispersion. The twopreferred active ingredient concentrations for an aqueous dispersionform of TBZ according to the present invention range from between about20% to 30%, preferably about 25%, by weight and between about 45% and55%, preferably about 50%, by weight. The most preferred activeingredient concentration is about 25% by weight. In addition to beingeconomically attractive, the 25% by weight active formulation hasexcellent viscosity, handling properties and stability. While all of theTBZ aqueous dispersions produced by the methods of the present inventionhave greatly improved viscosity and handling properties over the TBZproducts currently available, the higher the percent of activeingredient the more viscous and difficult to handle the product. Forexample, the viscosity of the 25% by weight active formulation willtypically be between approximately 1100 and 1700 centipoise (cps) whilethe viscosity of the 50% by weight active formulation will typically bebetween approximately 5500 and 6500 cps, when viscosity is measured by aBrookfield RV viscometer using a #5 spindle at 50 rpm.

[0040] The xanthan gum-containing TBZ aqueous dispersions prepared bythe methods of the present invention, regardless of the activeingredient concentration, are generally stable. That is, the dispersionsremain uniformly blended for several months. In addition, freeze-thawstability of all of the formulations are excellent, with no substantialseparation of the product or significant change in viscosity over time.Furthermore, the aqueous dispersions as prepared herein are alsochemically stable. That is, the biocidal efficacy does not significantlydegrade over time.

[0041] In another embodiment of the present invention a dispersioncontaining both TBZ and DBDCB is made by first preparing a TBZdispersion as described above, preparing a DBDCB dispersion by mixing aneffective amount of xanthan gum with water in a vessel fitted with anagitator, adding an effective amount of DBDCB to the xanthan gum/watermixture, mixing until uniform, cooling the mixture to a temperaturebelow about 40° C., and grinding the xanthan gum/water/DBDCB mixture,and finally mixing the necessary quantities of each of the DBDCB and TBZdispersions to give a blend of the two biocides in the desired DBDCB toTBZ weight ratio. Preparation of the DBDCB dispersion takes place insubstantially the same way as the TBZ dispersion with the followingnotable exceptions.

[0042] Following addition of the xanthan gum to the water, the mixtureshould be cooled, if necessary, to a temperature of less than about 40°C. Maintaining the mixture at a temperature of between about 20° C. and30° C. is preferred with a temperature of about 25° C. being mostpreferred. A jacket or coil can be used to cool the mixture. Thiscooling step is required because DBDCB melts at a temperature of about45° C. DBDCB, if melted, can corrode the grinder. For this reason it ispreferred that the water mixed with the xanthan gum be room temperatureor colder. This helps to ensure that the mixture is below 40° C. beforegrinding begins, which is important because heat is generated during thegrinding step, and might even eliminate the need to cool the mixtureduring grinding.

[0043] DBDCB can be added in wet cake form as well as in dry powderform; both of these formulations are commercially available from CalgonCorporation, Pittsburgh, Pa. When using DBDCB in the wet cake form, i.e.DBDCB with water added, it is necessary to compensate for the fact thatbecause of the water content the wet cake is less than 100% active. Forexample, if the wet cake contains DBDCB which is less than 100% active,then more wet cake and less water should be used. The calculationsnecessary to determine this compensation are well within the ordinaryskill of one practicing in the art.

[0044] Because the particle size of DBDCB is typically prohibitivelylarge, grinding the mixture of xanthan gum, water and DBDCB is generallynecessary. A grinder contained within the vessel itself can be employedfor this purpose. Preferably the grinder will be separate from thevessel, and attached thereto by pipes or other means through which themixture can be fed. If the grinder is inside the vessel, it need only beactivated when grinding is necessary. If the grinder is separate, a slowinitial feed of the mixture to the grinder is typically best so as toprevent lumps of DBDCB from plugging the grinder feed line; this feedrate can be increased as rapidly as the equipment being used will allow.For example, a large, high power grinder will be able to process themixture at a faster rate than will a smaller, low power grinder. A highintensity grinder arranged to recirculate the mixture is generallypreferred. A Comitrol® Processor with a micro-cut head available fromthe Urschel Co., a Speco colloid mill and a Premier supermill have allbeen shown to be adequate grinders for use in the methods of the presentinvention.

[0045] A pump to feed the grinder, a second equivalent vessel or tankinto which the mix can be transferred through the grinder, and a screento filter the product can also be used. Once a smooth rapid flow ofslurry is established, a sample of the recirculating product stream canbe obtained and screened to be sure the particle size specificationdesired by the user has been met. The method of performing a screenanalysis will be familiar to one having ordinary skill in the art. Whena grind meeting the required particle size is obtained, the mix can thenbe transferred through the grinder to the second mix tank. Duringtransfer to the second tank, passing the product through a course screento remove any lumps or gels is recommended. The second mix tank shouldthen be agitated for about 30 minutes more to ensure a well blendedmixture.

[0046] As with the preparation of the TBZ dispersion, the concentrationof active ingredient in the DBDCB dispersion can be varied to suit theneeds of the user and can range, for example, from between 0.1 and 60%by weight of the total product. Preferred active ingredientconcentrations range from between about 20% to 30% by weight of thetotal product and between about 45% to 55% by weight of the totalproduct; a concentration of about 25% by weight of the total product ismost preferred. A preferred wet mesh particle size percentage retainedon USS No. 100 mesh is 0.25 maximum and through USS No. 200 mesh 97.5minimum, and a preferred Brookfield viscosity measured in cps is betweenabout 1400 and 3100 as determined by a Brookfield RV viscometer using a#5 spindle at 50 rpm and at 25° C.; both of these specifications will beunderstood by one having ordinary skill in the art. It will also beunderstood by one skilled in the art that the wet mesh particle size andBrookfield viscosity can be varied to suit the needs of the user.

[0047] Sodium chloride, EDTA, and an anti-foam agent, as described abovein reference to the preparation of the TBZ dispersion, are also suitableprocessing agents for preparation of the DBDCB dispersion. Adding ananti-foam agent is particularly important during preparation of theDBDCB dispersion to prevent foaming during the grinding step. Additionof the wetting agent, added in preparation of the TBZ dispersion, is notnecessary here if adding the DBDCB in wet cake form. A block copolymersurfactant can also optionally be added to improve the freeze/thawstability of the product; a suitable surfactant for this purpose isPluronic® F-127 available from the Wyandot Chemical Co. Preferablybetween about 0.1 and 10 pounds of surfactant should be added for every1000 pounds of product, more preferably between about 0.5 and 1.5pounds.

[0048] Following the preparation of both the TBZ and the DBDCB aqueousdispersions, an admixture of the two aqueous dispersions containing bothactive ingredients can then be prepared. The overall active ingredientconcentration of the admixture will be dependent on the activeingredient concentration of the TBZ and DBDCB dispersions. For example,if the active ingredient of both of the dispersions is about 25% byweight, the active ingredient concentration of the final blend willsimilarly be around 25% by weight. As will be appreciated by one skilledin the art, this active concentration can be increased or decreased tosuit the needs of the user by altering the amounts of startingingredients used in preparation of the two dispersions. As discussedabove with reference to the TBZ dispersion, the higher the activeingredient the more viscous the product. A viscous product can havenumerous handling problems and for this reason a TBZ/DBDCB dispersionhaving an active concentration of about 25% by weight is preferred.

[0049] The ratio of DBDCB to TBZ in the final blend can also be adjustedover a broad range and can be varied as needed by the user. Theproportion of the two components in the aqueous dispersion blend aredictated by the desired dosage levels of each component to be employedin each end use application. While it is anticipated that the ratio ofDBDCB to TBZ may be chosen to provide a synergistic effect between thetwo biocides, any ratio of DBDCB to TBZ can be achieved by practicingthe methods of the present invention. A DBDCB to TBZ weight ratiobetween 4:1 and 1:4 on an active basis is preferred, both in terms ofthe efficacy and synergy of the biocides as well as the economicconsiderations; a ratio of 4:1 is most preferred.

[0050] In another embodiment of the methods of the present invention,there is provided another process for making an aqueous dispersioncontaining both DBDCB and TBZ, comprising the steps of mixing aneffective amount of xanthan gum with water in a vessel fitted with anagitator, adding an effective amount of DBDCB to the xanthan gum/watermixture, cooling the mixture to a temperature below about 40° C. if thetemperature is higher, grinding the mixture, adding an effective amountof TBZ to the ground mixture and mixing until uniform, generally atleast about 30 minutes. The processing agents described above canoptionally be added to the aqueous dispersion here in the same manner.

[0051] In an alternative to this embodiment the TBZ can be added to theslurry containing the xanthan gum, water and DBDCB prior to grindingrather than after the grinding. In this alternative, the TBZ is alsosubjected to the grinding step. In most cases grinding of the TBZ is notnecessary but, if ground, the TBZ will have the same efficacy as TBZthat has not been ground.

[0052] In another embodiment of the present invention there is providedyet another process for making an aqueous dispersion containing bothDBDCB and TBZ comprising the steps of mixing water with effectiveamounts of sodium chloride, disodium EDTA and a block copolymersurfactant in a vessel fitted with a jacket and an agitator, adding aneffective amount of a food grade, enzyme free xanthan gum to themixture, adding an effective amount of anti-foam emulsion to the mixtureand mixing until uniform, adding an effective amount of DBDCB to themixture and mixing until uniform, cooling the mixture to a temperatureof about 25° C., grinding the mixture, passing the ground mixturethrough a screen to remove gels or lumps, adding an effective amount ofTBZ to the screened mixture and mixing until uniform. Again, in analternative embodiment the TBZ can be added to the mixture beforegrinding.

[0053] In accordance with the present invention there is still furtherprovided a method of inhibiting microbial growth comprising contactingsaid growth with an effective amount of a synergistic blend of DBDCB andTBZ as prepared by one of the processes recounted above. As used here,the term “effective amount” refers to that amount of a DBDCB/TBZ aqueousdispersion needed to achieve a desired level of inhibition of microbialgrowth.

[0054] The antimicrobial activity of the admixture of DBDCB and TBZprepared by the methods described above has been confirmed usingstandard laboratory techniques. The dispersion has been found effective,for example, in inhibiting the growth of various bacterial and fungalstrains including but not limited to Pseudomonas sp., Alcaligenesfacelis, Enterobacter sp., Aspergillus niger, Aureobasidium pullulansand Penicillium pinophilum. Such bacteria and fungi are commonly foundin paint and adhesive products. The aqueous dispersion blends preparedas described above have activity against these organisms when employedat appropriate levels of concentration. Those skilled in the art willunderstand that the required effective amount of the dispersion to usewill vary with particular organisms and in particular applications. Itwill further be understood that many factors will determine the actualamount of the composition to be added in order to achieve the maximumamount of inhibition of microbial growth in a particular system. Thedetermination of this amount is well within the skill of the artisan inthis field.

[0055] Likewise, the amount of TBZ aqueous dispersion prepared accordingto the methods of the present invention which will effectively limitmicrobial growth will vary between systems and applications. Generally,however, for adhesives, the aqueous dispersion form of TBZ prepared asdescribed herein can be added to the make-up water or as a post additivein adhesive production in amounts in excess of at least about 0.05,preferably ranging from about 0.1 to 5.0 weight percent of the 50%active formulation or at least about 0.1, preferably from about 0.2 to10 weight percent of the 25% active formulation.

[0056] For interior and exterior coatings, the TBZ dispersion should beincorporated with the pigment grind. Typical formulations require atleast about 0.1, preferably from about 0.20 to 4 pounds (lbs) of the 50%active product or at least about 0.1, preferably between about 0.40 to 8lbs of the 25% active product, per 100 gallons of coating.

[0057] When used in the paper industry, TBZ is most effectively appliedvia the size tub, water trough, or coater. The TBZ dispersion should beadded in an area of high agitation at a dosage of at least about 1.0,preferably from about 100 to 500 parts per million (ppm) for the 50%active product or at least about 2.0, preferably from about 200 to 1,000ppm for the 25% active product, based on finished paper weight.

[0058] In production of canvas textiles, the fabric should be passedthrough a solution of the desired TBZ dispersion concentration, andshould be applied at a dosage of at least about 10 ppm, preferably fromabout 250 to 1,500 ppm for the 50% active product or at least about 20ppm, preferably from about 500 to 3,000 ppm for the 25% active product.Application of the TBZ dispersion in an effective quantity will providemold and mildew resistance to canvas textiles.

[0059] For synthetic carpeting, when using spin finishing applications,at least about 0.01, preferably from about 0.05 to 0.2 weight percent ofthe 50% active product should be added, or from about 0.1 to 0.4 weightpercent of the 25% active product should be used, based on the totalweight of the material being used.

EXAMPLES

[0060] The following examples are provided to illustrate the inventionin greater detail and should not be construed as limiting the scope ofthe present invention in any way.

Example I

[0061] Preparation of 25% By Weight Active DBDCB Dispersion

[0062] Table 1 represents the amount of each starting material used inpreparation of approximately 1000 pounds of a DBDCB aqueous dispersionhaving an active concentration of about 25% by weight. TABLE 1 Amount OfRaw Material Used Per 1000 Pounds Of Name Of Item Product (Pounds)Zeolite Softened Water 728.05 Disodium EDTA (Edetic 1.00 Acid, DisodiumDihydrate) Sodium Chloride 5.35 Pluronic ® F-127 1.00 Xanthan Gum (foodgrade, 7.10 enzyme free) Dow Corning ® Antifoam AF 2.50 Emulsion DBDCBWet Cake (100% 255.00 active basis)

[0063] The Zeolite Softened Water was added to a stainless steel,jacketed tank fitted with an agitator and a Comitrol® high intensitygrinder obtained from the Urschel Co. Agitation was initiated and thesodium chloride, disodium EDTA and Pluronic® F-127 were added to thetank and mixed until uniform, about five minutes. The xanthan gum,obtained from Kelco, was slowly added batchwise to the tank and mixeduntil dissolved; each batch of xanthan gum was allowed to dispersethoroughly before additional material was added. Addition of all of thexanthan gum took approximately 20 minutes. When addition of the xanthangum was completed, the Antifoam AF Emulsion was added and mixed untildissolved, about 2 to 3 minutes. The temperature of the mixture wasmaintained at 25° C. by cooling the mixing tank jacket. The DBDCB WetCake was then added to the tank, and the mixture was allowed to agitatefor approximately 15 minutes to ensure that all of the large lumps ofDBDCB were broken up and a uniform slurry was formed. The slurry wasthen fed to the grinder operating in a recirculating mode. Aftergrinding for approximately 10 minutes, a sample was withdrawn andscreened through USS Nos. 100 and 200 mesh screens. This screening stepwas repeated until the slurry met the particle size specification asdefined below. When this particle size was achieved the slurry wastransferred to a second tank; during transfer the slurry was passedthrough a 10 mesh filter screen to remove any gels or lumps which werepresent. After transfer of the slurry from the first to the second tank,the grinder was shut off and the transfer lines purged into the secondmix tank. This second tank was then agitated for about 30 minutes toblend the mixture.

[0064] The resulting product contained about 25.5% by weight DBDCB andhad a wet particle size of about 0.25 maximum retained on USS No. 100mesh and 97.5 minimum through USS No. 200 mesh. The Brookfield Viscosityof the dispersion was about 1850 cps as determined by a Brookfield RVviscometer operating with a #5 spindle at 50 revolutions per minute(rpm) and at 25° C.

Example II

[0065] Preparation of 25% By Weight Active TBZ Dispersion

[0066] Approximately one thousand pounds of a 25% by weight active TBZdispersion were made using the following raw materials in the indicatedamounts: TABLE 2 Amount Of Raw Material Used Per 1000 Pounds Of Name OfItem Product (Pounds) Zeolite Softened Water 730.30 Disodium EDTA 1.00Sodium Chloride 5.00 Dow Corning ® Antifoam AF 2.50 Emulsion Xanthan Gum5.20 DBDCB Wet Cake 1.00 Igepal ® CTA 639 5.00 Thiabendazole, DispersionGrade 250.00

[0067] The water, which was at a temperature of about 27° C., was addedto a stainless steel, jacketed tank fitted with a turbine-type agitator.Agitation was initiated and the disodium EDTA was added to the tank andmixed until dissolved, about 2 to 3 minutes. The sodium chloride wasthen added to the tank and mixed until dissolved, about 2 to 3 minutes.The Antifoam AF Emulsion was added to the tank and mixed until uniform,about 2 to 3 minutes. The xanthan gum, obtained from Kelco, was slowlyadded batchwise to the tank and mixed until dissolved; each batch ofxanthan gum was allowed to disperse thoroughly before additionalmaterial was added. Addition of all of the xanthan gum tookapproximately 20 minutes. The mixture was allowed to agitate forapproximately 30 minutes after all of the xanthan gum was added. TheDBDCB, added as a preservative, was added to the mixture after thexanthan gum was completely mixed, and the tank agitated for about 2 to 3minutes to dissolve the DBDCB. The Igepal® CTA 639 was then added to thetank and mixed until uniform, about 2 to 3 minutes. Thiabendazole (TBZ)was then added slowly to the tank over a period of approximately 30minutes. Upon addition of all of the TBZ, the mixture was agitated forabout one hour.

[0068] The resulting product had an active TBZ concentration of about25% by weight. The Brookfield Viscosity of the product was approximately1400 cps as determined with Brookfield RV viscometer using a #5 spindleat 50 revolutions per minute (rpm) and at 25° C.

Example III

[0069] Preparation of 50% By Weight Active TBZ Dispersion

[0070] Approximately one thousand pounds of a 50% by weight activeingredient TBZ dispersion were made as described above in Example II,but using the following raw materials in the indicated amounts: TABLE 3Amount Of Raw Material Used Per 1000 Pounds Of Name Of Item Product(Pounds) Zeolite Softened Water 482.10 Disodium EDTA 1.00 SodiumChloride 5.00 Dow Corning ® Antifoam AF 2.50 Emulsion Xanthan Gum 3.40DBDCB Wet Cake 1.00 Igepal ® CTA 639 5.00 Thiabendazole, DispersionGrade 500.00

Example IV

[0071] Preparation Of An 80/20 DBDCB/TBZ 25% By Weight Active AqueousDispersion

[0072] An eight ounce sample of a DBDCB/TBZ 25% by weight activedispersion was prepared by adding about 6.4 ounces of a 25% by weightactive DBDCB dispersion as prepared according to Example I and about 1.6ounces of a 25% by weight active TBZ dispersion as prepared according toExample II to a mix tank and agitating the mixture with a turbine-typeagitator until uniform. The active ingredients in the blend totalledapproximately 25% by weight and the weight ratio of DBDCB to TBZ wasabout 80 to 20. The Brookfield viscosity of the blend was approximately1600 cps as determined by a Brookfield RV viscometer using a #5 spindleat 50 rpm and at 25° C.

Example V

[0073] Efficacy of 80/20 DBDCB/TBZ 25% By Weight Active Dispersion

[0074] The following example demonstrates the biocidal efficacy,including preservation and mildew resistance, of a 25% by weight activedispersion of DBDCB/TBZ in a weight ratio of 80/20 as prepared accordingto Example IV.

[0075] PRESERVATION TESTS

[0076] Preservation tests were run on the DBDCB/TBZ dispersion by firstplacing 25 gram samples of various adhesives into separate containers. Aladder series of the 80/20 DBDCB/TBZ 25% by weight active biocide blend,prepared according to Example IV, in concentrations ranging from 0 ppm(control) to 2000 ppm, with the concentration in ppm being productbased, was then added to the samples as indicated in the table below.The 25 gram adhesive samples were then inoculated with 0.25 milliliters(ml) of an inoculum containing equal amounts of four different gramnegative bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Pseudomonas sp., Alcaligenesfacelis, and Enterobacter sp.) and having an overall organismconcentration of 1×10⁶. The samples were incubated at 30° C. and at 85%relative humidity. The samples were streaked on Tryptone Glucose Extract(TGE) agar twice—first after 2 days and again after 7 days. Afterstreaking, the TGE agar plates were incubated at 30° C. and 85% relativehumidity.

[0077] On the 7th day after the initial inoculation, the samples wereinoculated a second time, again with 0.25 ml of the inoculum containingthe four gram negative bacteria. The 25 gram samples were againincubated at 30° C. and at 85% relative humidity and streaked on TGEagar after 2 days and 7 days. After streaking, the TGE agar plates wereincubated at 30° C. and 85% relative humidity. The TGE plates were readfor bacterial growth every 7 days after streaking; this reading wasperformed by visual inspection. Results are recorded in the tables belowand are based upon the following key: 0=no growth; 1=trace growth;2=slight growth; 3=moderate growth; and 4=heavy growth. TABLE 4 FlexibleCeramic Type Adhesive Concentration Concentration Streak Results ofbiocide (ppm of biocide 1st Inoculation 2nd Inoculation product based)(grams) Sample # 2 days 7 days 2 days 7 days — — 1 4 4 4 4 250 .0125 2 44 4 4 500 .025 3 3 3 4 4 750 .0375 4 2 2 4 4 1000 .05 5 0 0 4 4 2000 .16 0 0 4 4

[0078] TABLE 5 Easy Sanding Wall Patching Compound ConcentrationConcentration Streak Results of biocide (ppm of biocide 1st Inoculation2nd Inoculation product based) (grams) Sample # 2 days 7 days 2 days 7days — — 1 4 4 4 4 250 .0125 2 4 4 4 4 500 .025 3 2 2 4 4 750 .0375 4 11 4 4 1000 .05 5 0 0 4 4 2000 .1 6 0 0 4 4

[0079] TABLE 6 Smooth Patching Compound Concentration ConcentrationStreak Results of biocide (ppm of biocide 1st Inoculation 2ndInoculation product based) (grams) Sample # 2 days 7 days 2 days 7 days— — 1 0 0 4 4 250 .0125 2 0 0 4 4 500 .025 3 0 0 4 4 750 .0375 4 0 0 4 41000 .05 5 0 0 4 4 2000 .1 6 0 0 0 0

[0080] As can be seen from the above tables, the 80/20 DBDCB/TBZ biocideblend was successful in eliminating organism growth in flexible ceramictype adhesive and easy sanding wall patching compound which had beensubject to only one inoculation. Likewise, the blend eliminatedmicrobial growth in the smooth patching compound after the secondinoculation.

[0081] MILDEW RESISTANCE TESTS

[0082] Mildew resistance tests were also carried out on various types ofadhesives and one type of exterior vinyl paint. 50 gram aliquots of thepaint were blended with a ladder series of 80/20 DBDCB/TBZ 25% by weightactive dispersion in concentrations ranging from 0 ppm (control) to 2000ppm as indicated in Table 7. The paint/biocide mixtures were thenpainted onto hard wood tongue blades, with two coats of thesample/dispersion mixture applied to each blade. The tongue blades weredried 24 hours between the first and second applications of the coats.Half of the painted tongue blades were subjected to weathering in a QUVAccelerated Weather Tester for 24 hours. The tongue blades were theninoculated with 1.0 ml of a mixed spore suspension containing equalamounts of Aspergillus niger, ATTC 6275, Aureobasidium pullulans, ATTC9348, and Penicillium pinophilum, ATTC 9644; the overall organismconcentration of the inoculum was 1×10⁶. After inoculation, the tongueblades were incubated at 30° C. and 85% relative humidity. Mildew growthwas recorded after 7 days and 14 days, and was read by visualinspection. The results are recorded in Table 7 below and are based onthe following key: 0-3=heavy growth; 4-6=moderate growth; 7-9=tracegrowth; and 10=no growth. TABLE 7 Exterior Vinyl Paint Concentration ofbiocide ppm Mixed Spore Results Product 7 days 14 days Based gramsSample # Unweathered Weathered Unweathered Weathered — — 1 0 0 0 0 250.0125 2 0 0 0 0 500 .025 3 0 0 0 0 750 .0375 4 0 0 0 0 1000 .05 5 0 0 00 2000 .1 6 10 10 10 10

[0083] As is seen in Table 7, the 80/20 DBDCB/TBZ blend inconcentrations of 2000 ppm eliminated all traces of microbial growth inweathered and unweathered specimens after both 7 and 14 days.

[0084] The adhesives were subjected to similar mildew resistancetesting. 50 gram aliquots of 2 different adhesives were blended with aladder series of 80/20 DBDCB/TBZ 25% by weight active dispersion inconcentrating ranges from 0 ppm (control) to 2000 ppm as indicated inthe tables below. Two coats of the adhesive/biocide mixture were paintedonto Whatman #30 filter paper. Following the painting of the two coatsof adhesive/biocide mixture on the paper, with 24 hours drying timebetween application of the coats, duplicate two inch squares of thecoated paper were then placed on the surface of mineral salts agar (MSA)and then inoculated with 1.0 ml of a mixed spore suspension containingequal amounts of Aspergillus niger, ATTC 6275, Aureobasidium pullulans,ATTC 9348 and Penicillium pinophilum, ATTC 9644. The total organismconcentration of the inoculum was 1×10⁶. The samples were then incubatedat 30° C. and 85% relative humidity. Reading was performed by visualinspection. Results were recorded after 7 days and 14 days as indicatedin the tables below and are based on the following key: 0=no growth;1=trace growth; 2=slight growth; 3=moderate growth; and 4=heavy growth.TABLE 8 Easy Sanding Wall Compound Concentration Concentration ofbiocide of biocide Results (ppm) (grams) Sample # 7 days 14 days — — 1 44 250 0.0125 2 4 4 500 0.025 3 4 4 750 0.0375 4 4 4 1000  0.05 5 0 02000  0.1 6 0 0

[0085] TABLE 9 Smooth Patching Compound Concentration Concentration ofbiocide of biocide Results (ppm) (grams) Sample # 7 days 14 days — — 1 44 250 0.0125 2 3 3 500 0.025 3 2 2 750 0.0375 4 1 2 1000  0.05 5 0 02000  0.1 6 0 0

[0086] As is seen in the above tables, the 80/20 DBDCB/TBZ blend at 1000ppm eliminated microbial growth after 14 days in both the easy sandingwall compound and the smooth patching compound.

Example VI

[0087] Preparation of 80/20 DBDCB/TBZ 25% By Weight Active Dispersion

[0088] To prepare about 1000 pounds of an 80/20 dispersion of DBDCB/TBZ,25% by weight active, the following amounts of raw materials should beused: TABLE 10 Amount of raw material per 1000 pounds of Name of Itemproduct (pounds) Zeolite Softened Water 728.05 EDTA salt 1.00 SodiumChloride 5.35 Surfactant 1.00 Xanthan Gum, food grade, enzyme free 7.10Anti-foam agent 2.50 DBDCB 204.00 Thiabendazole, dispersion grade 51.00

[0089] Add the Zeolite Softened Water to a stainless steel, jacketedtank fitted with an agitator and attached to a high intensity grinder.Initiate agitation and add the sodium chloride, a salt form ofethylenediaminetetraacetic acid and surfactant to the tank, mixing untiluniform, about 5 minutes. Slowly add the xanthan gum batchwise and mixuntil dissolved; each addition off xanthan gum should be allowed todisperse thoroughly before additional material is added. Total additionof all of the xanthan gum should take about 20 minutes. When addition ofthe xanthan gum is completed, add the anti-foam agent and mix untildissolved, about 2 to 3 minutes. Maintain the temperature of the mix atabout 25° C., such as through the use of jacket cooling the mixture. Addthe DBDCB to the tank, and allow the slurry to agitate for approximately15 minutes to ensure that all of the large lumps of DBDCB are broken up.Then add the TBZ and mix until uniform, about 20 minutes. The DBDCB/TBZslurry should then be added slowly to the grinder, operating in arecirculating mode. Once a smooth, rapid flow of slurry is established,withdraw a sample and screen it through USS 100 and 200 mesh screens.This sample/screening step should be repeated until the slurry meets theparticle size specification as defined below. When this is achieved,transfer the slurry to a second tank; during transfer, pass the slurrythrough a 10 mesh filter screen to remove any gels or lumps which arepresent. After transfer of the slurry from the first to the second tank,shut off the grinder and purge the transfer lines into the second mixtank. Agitate this second tank for about 30 minutes to blend themixture. The resulting product should have about 20.4% by weight±0.5DBDCB, 5.0% by weight±0.2 TBZ, a wet particle size of about 0.25 maximumretained on USS No. 100 and 97.5 minimum through USS No. 200 and aBrookfield Viscosity of between about 1600 and 2900 cps as determinedwith a #5 spindle at 50 revolutions per minute (rpm) and at 25° C.

What is claimed is:
 1. A process for preparing a2-(4-thiazolyl)-benzimidazole (TBZ) antimicrobial composition in aqueousdispersion form comprising the steps of: a. mixing an effective amountof xanthan gum with water in a vessel fitted with an agitator; and b.adding an effective amount of TBZ to the mixture of step (a) and mixinguntil uniform.
 2. The process of claim 1 which further comprises: c.preparing a l,2-dibromo-2,4-dicyanobutane (DBDCB) antimicrobialcomposition in aqueous dispersion form by i. mixing an effective amountof xanthan gum with water in a vessel fitted with an agitator; ii.adding an effective amount of (DBDCB) to the mixture of step (i) andmixing until uniform; iii. maintaining the mixture of step (ii) below atemperature of about 40+ C.; iv. grinding the mixture of step (iii); andd. mixing a desired quantity of the TBZ antimicrobial composition with adesired quantity of the DBDCB antimicrobial composition to form anadmixture containing both DBDCB and TBZ in aqueous dispersion form. 3.The process of claim 2 wherein the steps of preparing the TBZ and DBDCBantimicrobial compositions in aqueous dispersion form further includeadding effective amounts of one or more processing aids selected fromthe group consisting of sodium chloride, salts ofethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), a block copolymer surfactant, anantifoam agent and a wetting agent.
 4. The process of claim 2 whereinthe step of preparing the DBDCB antimicrobial composition furthercomprises passing the ground mixture of step (iv) through a screen toremove lumps or gels.
 5. The process of claim 1 wherein steps a) and b)result in a dispersion comprising: a. between about 0.01 and 2% byweight xanthan gum; b. between about 0.1 and 60% by weight TBZ; and thebalance water.
 6. The process of claim 2 wherein steps a), b) and c)result in a dispersion comprising: a. between about 0.01 and 2% byweight xanthan gum; b. between about 0.1 and 60% by weight TBZ; c.between about 0.1 and 60% by weight DBDCB; and the balance water.
 7. Anaqueous dispersion useful as an antimicrobial agent comprising aneffective amount of 2-(4-thiazolyl)-benzimidazole (TBZ) as an activeingredient and an effective amount of xanthan gum as a stabilizer. 8.The dispersion of claim 7 wherein the TBZ is present in a concentrationranging between about 0.1% and 60% by weight.
 9. The dispersion of claim7 wherein the TBZ is present in a concentration ranging between about20% and 30% by weight.
 10. The dispersion of claim 7 further comprisingan effective amount of 1,2-dibromo-2,4-dicyanobutane (DBDCB) as anactive ingredient.
 11. The dispersion of claim 10 wherein the totalconcentration of DBDCB and TBZ active ingredients ranges from about 0.1%to 60%.
 12. The dispersion of claim 10 wherein the total concentrationof DBDCB and TBZ active ingredients ranges from about 20% to 30%. 13.The dispersion of claim 10 wherein the weight ratio, on an active basis,of DBDCB to TBZ is between about 4:1 and 1:4.
 14. The dispersion ofclaim 10 comprising: a. between about 0.01 and 2% by weight xanthan gum;b. between about 0.1 and 60% by weight TBZ; c. between about 0.1 and 60%by weight DBDCB; and the balance water.
 15. The dispersion of claim 10further comprising effective amounts of one or more processing aidsselected from the group consisting of sodium chloride, salts ofethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), a block copolymer surfactant, anantifoam agent and a wetting agent.
 16. A process for preparing anaqueous dispersion of 1,2-dibromo-2,4-dicyanobutane (DBDCB) and2-(4-thiazolyl)-benzimidazole (TBZ) comprising the steps of: a. mixingan effective amount of xanthan gum with water in a vessel fitted with anagitator; b. adding an effective amount of DBDCB to the mixture of step(a) and mixing until uniform; c. maintaining the mixture of step (b)below a temperature of about 40° C.; d. grinding the mixture of step(c); e. adding an effective amount of TBZ to the ground mixture of step(d); and f. mixing until uniform.
 17. The process of claim 16 whichfurther comprises: adding an effective amount of both DBDCB and TBZ tothe mixture of step (a), and wherein step (e) is eliminated.
 18. Theprocess of claim 16 wherein steps a) through f) result in a compositioncomprising: a. between about 0.01 and 2% by weight xanthan gum; b.between about 0.1 and 60% by weight TBZ; c. between about 0.1 and 60% byweight DBDCB; and the balance water.
 19. A process for preparing anaqueous dispersion of 1,2-dibromo-2,4-dicyanobutane (DBDCB) and2-(4-thiazolyl)-benzimidazole (TBZ) which process comprises: a. mixingwater and effective amounts of sodium chloride, a salt form ofethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, and a surfactant in a vessel fittedwith and agitator; b. adding an effective amount of food grade, enzymefree xanthan gum to the mixture of step (a); c. adding an effectiveamount of an antifoam emulsion to the mixture of step (b) and mixinguntil uniform; d. adding an effective amount of DBDCB to the mixture ofstep (c) and mixing until uniform; e. cooling the mixture of step (d) toa temperature of about 25° C.; f. grinding the mixture of step (e); g.passing the ground mixture through a screen to remove gels or lumps; h.adding an effective amount of TBZ to the ground mixture of step (g); andi. mixing until uniform.
 20. The process of claim 19 which furthercomprises: adding an effective amount of both DBDCB and TBZ to themixture of step (c), and wherein step (h) is eliminated.
 21. A method ofinhibiting microbial growth comprising contacting said growth with aneffective amount of an admixture comprising1,2-dibromo-2,4-dicyanobutane and 2-(4-thiazolyl)-benzimidazole preparedby the process comprising the steps of: a. mixing an effective amount ofxanthan gum with water in a vessel fitted with an agitator; b. adding aneffective amount of DBDCB to the mixture of step (a) and mixing untiluniform; c. maintaining the mixture of step (b) below a temperature ofabout 40° C.; d. grinding the mixture of step (c); e. adding aneffective amount of TBZ to the ground mixture of step (d); and f. mixinguntil uniform.
 22. The method of claim 21 which further comprises addingan effective amount of both DBDCB and TBZ to the mixture of step (a),and wherein step (e) is eliminated.
 23. The method of claim 21 whereinthe total concentration of DBDCB and TBZ active ingredients ranges fromabout 0.1% to 60%.
 24. The method of claim 21 wherein the totalconcentration of DBDCB and TBZ active ingredients ranges from about 20%to 30%.
 25. The method of claim 21 in which the ratio of DBDCB to TBZ isabout 4:1.
 26. The method of claim 21 wherein said admixture comprises:a. between about 0.01 and 2% by weight xanthan gum; b. between about 0.1and 60% by weight TBZ; c. between about 0.1 and 60% by weight DBDCB; andthe balance water.